Shrink-sleeves are the fastest-growing segment in the labels market, and the ability of the HP Indigo press ws4050 to be able to print shrink-sleeves as well as conventional labels, flexible packaging and cartons, means that the press truly represents a revolution in package printing and converting.
Reverse printing is often used in shrink-sleeve printing to prevent marring and scuffing during transit. This is a technique that is easily accomplished with HP Indigo technology. It also facilitates the ‘no label’ look that is currently in vogue.
The beverage industry is the major consumer of shrink-sleeve labels and this sector is possibly the most demanding in terms of adherence to corporate identity, brand colours and print quality. HP Indigo digital printing technology readily meets these expectations and enables just-in-time deliveries and stockless supply chains, as well as rapid production.
The use of shrink-sleeves is expected to continue to expand as it eliminates the problems of printing on irregularly shaped containers and widely diverse substrates. Shrink-sleeves can increasingly be found in use on healthcare products or as part of tamper-evident security features.
The ability for a packaging printer and converter to be able to offer shrink-sleeve production using the same press as his customers’ other products are printed on gives him powerful leverage to develop new business and help his customer to expand, too.
